San Mateo: Arrest made in vicious attack police consider a hate crime

SAN MATEO -- A 36-year-old San Mateo resident was arrested Wednesday as a suspect in a brutal attack on a 55-year-old man who told police he was targeted because of his sexual orientation.

San Mateo police said they tried to contact Santos Manuel Marquez at a residence on the 300 block of North Humboldt Street around 5 p.m. Wednesday, and the suspect fled through a window. After a brief chase and search, he was found and arrested without incident.

Police said they also recovered a large U-shaped bicycle lock that they believe was used in the attack.

The victim was walking in the early morning hours of July 20 from the area of 3rd and Eldorado streets to the 700 block of Santa Ynez Avenue when he was attacked.

Officers found him suffering from serious injuries to his head and face. He was taken to a trauma center, where he was treated, and is expected to survive.

Marquez was booked into San Mateo County Jail and faces charges of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, aggravated mayhem and perpetration of a hate crime.